Fisher: Florida State DB Karlos Williams moving to RB

By Chip Patterson | College Football/Basketball Writer

September 6, 2013 10:05 AM ET

Karlos Williams will be moving from safety to running back. (USATSI)

Another year and a new defensive scheme led many to believe that 2013 would bring more playing time for Florida State junior safety Karlos Williams. The former five-star prospect from Davenport, Fla. could see a boost in his snap count, but it is going to come at a different position.

Jimbo Fisher told reporters Thursday that Williams was making the move to running back. The move will help boost the depth at that position after Mario Pender was ruled academically ineligible and James Wilder Jr. suffered a shoulder injury in the season-opening win at Pitt on Monday.

"I think he can provide not just depth there, but I think he can provide some spark there," Fisher said of Williams. "I'm not disappointed with what I have, but with running back, those guys take a beating. You keep a great rotation."

According to the Orlando Sentinel, Williams will still play defensive back in some passing situations when six defensive backs are needed. He will also continue returning kicks.

"He is very natural with the ball in his hand and he can change numbers on the scoreboard in my opinion," Fisher said.

Fisher said that Wilder Jr.'s status is "day-to-day." The Seminoles are off until their home opener against Nevada on Sept. 14.